The serene coastal town of Esperance, Western Australia, finds itself grappling with tragedy following a fatal shark attack earlier this week. The victim, Steven Payne, was surfing off the coast when he encountered the predator. The shark bit his surfboard, which has since been recovered and will undergo tests in Perth to determine the species and size of the shark involved. This incident marks the fourth fatal attack in the area over the past eight years. The specific species of shark involved remains unconfirmed, adding to the urgency for enhanced safety measures.
Efforts to monitor shark activity in the region are ongoing. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has been proactive in tagging white sharks since 2009, with 206 tagged to date in Western Australian waters. Off the Esperance coast, nine sharks were tagged between November 2024 and February 2025. The state government has established a network of shark monitoring receivers, including four based off Esperance, each costing approximately $30,000. These receivers serve as crucial tools in alerting the public when tagged sharks are nearby.
Wharton Beach, the site of the recent attack, reopened on Wednesday afternoon after being closed since Monday. Meanwhile, the search for the shark involved was suspended mid-morning on Wednesday.
Community Calls for Enhanced Safety Measures
In light of this tragedy, community leaders and residents are calling for stronger shark mitigation strategies. Mitchell Capelli, founder of the Esperance Ocean Safety and Support Group, emphasized the need for immediate action.
"It's got to the point now where I'm getting approached by people wanting to set up a rally out the front of parliament house," said Mitchell Capelli.
Capelli further urged political leaders to address these concerns promptly.
"Calling on the Premier to actually pull some strings here and save some lives by responding following an attack," he added.
Esperance Shire President Ron Chambers expressed the community's deep sorrow and stressed the importance of allowing emergency services to complete their work with due respect to those affected by this tragedy.
"Right now we need to allow our police, SES, and other emergency services personnel to complete their demanding work for this incident, to pay respect to the memory of a young life lost too soon, and the family, friends, and loved ones mourning his loss," Chambers stated.
The emotional toll on Esperance residents is palpable as they navigate the aftermath of this incident.
"And to acknowledge that our community are really feeling the effects of this tragedy," Chambers added.
Remembering Steven Payne
Steven Payne was more than a victim; he was a beloved member of many communities. His family described him as a "gentle giant," lauding his intelligence, kindness, humor, and practicality. Payne's commitment extended beyond his love for rugby; he was a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) near his residence in Geelong. His passion for the ocean was shared with his partner through numerous dives with sharks, fully aware of the risks involved.
"Steven Payne was a beloved partner, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend," his family stated.
Payne was also known for his enthusiasm for sports.
"Steve was a staunch Hurricanes and All Blacks rugby union supporter and still played touch rugby," his family added.
His contributions as a firefighter and colleague were well respected within his community.
"He was a volunteer firefighter with the CFA near where he and his partner and dog lived in Geelong and a well-respected colleague," his family shared.
The void left by Payne's passing extends beyond his immediate family and friends; it impacts all who knew him or shared his love for the ocean.
Future Actions and Considerations
Amidst calls for improved safety measures, Esperance seeks to fortify its response strategies. Discussions involving government departments, emergency services, and community groups are anticipated in efforts to address these recurring incidents. The Esperance Ocean Safety and Support Group advocates for tangible actions that prioritize public safety without compromising marine life conservation.
The bite marks on Payne's surfboard present an opportunity for scientific analysis that may inform future preventative measures. DPIRD is tasked with conducting these tests to ascertain details about the shark species involved. Such data is vital in enhancing existing monitoring systems and ensuring they effectively serve their purpose.
